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The study, by Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, raises the possibility that oxytocin could be artificially given to fathers who are failing to bond with their children. It is available in a simple nasal spray.

Earlier this week a separate study suggested that at least 30,000 British fathers suffer from depression following the birth of a child.

One of the causes of post-natal depression, which has never been recognised in men before, is thought to be a failure to bond.

"Our findings add to the evidence that fathers, and not just mothers, undergo hormonal changes likely to facilitate increased empathy and motivation to care for their children," said study leader James Rilling.

"I'm interested in understanding why some fathers are more involved in caregiving than others.

"In order to fully understand variation in caregiving behaviour, we need a clear picture of the neurobiology and neural mechanisms that support the behaviour."